Asbestos use continued to expand as asbestos manufacturing companies assisted in writing specifications for products on U.S. Navy ships. During this time, hundreds of thousands of sailors and shipyard workers were being exposed to the harmful effects of asbestos by breathing the tiny fibers caused by the cutting and handling of this harmful insulation.

Based on the following fatality statistics, working in an American shipyard during World War II was nearly as dangerous as fighting in the war. 16.1 million Americans were called to fight for their country during World War II. The rate of death during combat was approximately 18 per 1000. In contrast, 4.3 million Americans worked in shipyards throughout the time of the war. For every 1000 shipyard employees, approximately 14 died from mesotheliomia. In addition, an unknown number died from asbestosis or complications from it.

Now, more than 40 years after this exposure, hundreds of people continue get sick each year, due to the long dormancy periods of these illnesses. This scourge is not expected to taper off for another ten years or so. Many of these shipbuilders and navy veterans are being diagnosed with deadly mesothelioma, decades after they have served their country. Not knowing that their exposure to asbestos might cut their lives short, they have raised families and built careers, and now many of them will be cheated from the pleasure of their golden years.

Because of the nature of this disease, it can remain undetected for over a decade before the patient shows any signs of illness. A very close friend of mine died about two years ago from mesothelioma. In fact, many veterans are now facing the deadly consequences of asbestos, due to exposure during their time in the military. I was wondering if your site would be interested in linking to a site that deals with this grave health issue and provides helpful information and support to veterans who may be dealing with this hardship.

www.mesotheliomaweb.org is one of the most established and comprehensive sites on mesothelioma. We provide facts about palliative care, nutrition, and chemotherapy, as well as information on clinical trials. Because we are constantly adding new information and articles, including international news, our information is always up-to-date.

For nearly ten years now, our website at www.mesotheliomaweb.org has been proactive in helping veterans obtain information on asbestos disease. Through our monthly advertising in American Legion Magazine, VFW Magazine and the Fleet Reserve Magazine we have spoken with and sent out printed materials on request to thousands of veterans concerned about asbestos exposure. We have also attended several National County Veteran Service Officer conventions in an attempt to help educate service officers about service-related asbestos exposure.

At www.mesotheliomaweb.org, visitors can sign up to receive a free information packet on asbestos exposure. There is also a phone number available for them to call, where they can talk to a real person to find out more about asbestos-related diseases.

http://www.mesotheliomaweb.org/veterans.htm is the page specifically designed for veterans, please check it out.